Spend the day at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected forest reserve home to elephants, Indian bison, tigers, and more. Take a guided tour led by a licensed naturalist to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the Western Ghats. In addition to trekking trails and a watch tower, the sanctuary now has an Interpretation Centre with a library, display area, and audio-visual facilities. Don't forget to bring a raincoat or umbrella as August is a monsoon season in Wayanad.
Discover the prehistoric Edakkal Caves nestled in the Ambukuthi Hills. The cave system includes ancient petroglyphs (rock art) and inscriptions that date back to the Neolithic Era. The 1 km trek up to the caves is steep but well-marked. The view from the top is spectacular and worth the effort.
Get away from the bustle of the city and explore the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. The dam is built across the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of Kabini River. The reservoir which is named after Banasura, the son of King Mahabali, is a great spot for boating, swimming, and hiking. Surrounded by the Banasura Hills, the area is breathtaking and picturesque.
If you have an extra day, you can visit the Meenmutty Falls, the largest and most spectacular falls in Wayanad. Alternatively, you can enjoy a cup of coffee and a view of the Thamarassery Churam at Chembra Peak. For a more cultural experience, visit the Phantom Rock and the Soochipara Falls, which are equally stunning. If you only have two days, you can choose between the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Edakkal Caves as they are the must-see attractions in the area. If you want to save some money, you can bring your own food and water as the attractions are located in the wilderness. Lastly, leave early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat, and carry an umbrella and insect repellent with you.